Dance vocalist Diane Charlemagne passes away after cancer battle

Diane Charlemagne, former frontwoman with Urban Cookie Collective and 52nd Street, has died aged 51 following a battle with cancer.

As well as fronting the two bands, the former of which scored two UK Top Ten singles in the 1990s, Charlemagne was also known for her contribution to Goldie track ‘Inner City Life’, for which she provided vocals, and for offering live vocals alongside Moby. She also worked with a reformed D:Ream.

The release of Charlemagne’s last record ‘It’s In Your Eyes’ featuring Andy Rourke of The Smiths and remixed by Youth, will go ahead on November 20 as planned, with the proceeds going to Diane’s family.

Listen to Goldie’s track ‘Inner City Life’ via YouTube, below:

Charlemagne’s soulful voice became heavily associated with the drum’n’bass scene, in particular through Goldie’s output.

Goldie confirmed Charlemagne’s passing on Twitter, saying:

“So she went into the early morning… God rest her soul #diane what a gifted voice. I can’t thank you enough for what you contributed and we will carry on your legacy. Your voice became the soundtrack to people’s lives. Rest in peace, Diane.”

‘Inner City Life’ is from Goldie’s album ‘Timeless’, and is considered one of the seminal drum’n’bass albums of the ’90s, with Charlemagne’s vocals on ‘Kemistry’ also remembered particularly fondly.